Cherry MX Black vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Strawberry. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that has gained a reputation for its smoothness and iconic sound profile. With Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling, these switches offer a textured smoothness and a deep sound when typing. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry is also a linear switch known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. The attractive pink and clear housings of the Strawberry switches add to their appeal. While the MX Black is categorized as 'low-pitched', 'textured', and 'stiff', the Strawberry switches are described as 'low-pitched', 'frictionless', 'silky', 'buttery', and 'polished'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Strawberry switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The MX Black utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which gives it a softer and more rounded sound. The nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and fuller sound when typing. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch incorporates a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, especially in the top housing, is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Although the two switches have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles. The MX Black's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This means that users can choose between a softer and more rounded typing experience with the MX Black or a crisper and more resonant sound with the Strawberry. Additionally, the polycarbonate material used in the Strawberry's housing allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic element to the switch.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom housing. Pressing down on the switch exposes the qualities of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, releasing a key emphasizes the impact of the top housing on the sound. Therefore, users will experience a combination of the characteristics offered by the top and bottom housings in both the MX Black and the Strawberry switches, albeit with different overall sound profiles due to their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Strawberry linear switches, there are noticeable differences in weight. The MX Black exhibits a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry switch offers a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, resulting in a medium-weight feel. These variances in force can significantly impact the user's typing experience. Those desiring a lighter switch may opt for the Strawberry, allowing for extended typing periods and optimal use during work or prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience would find the heavier forces of the MX Black more suitable. It is important to consider personal preferences and the intended purpose of the keyboard when selecting between these switches.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled for both switches. Therefore, the results of using either switch will be similar in terms of travel distance. However, it is important to note that the Cherry MX Black and the KTT Strawberry are two different switches, and they may have other differences in terms of tactile feel or actuation force.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, whereas the KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, both the Cherry MX Black and KTT Strawberry switches have a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they both produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Black switches are described as textured and stiff. Textured switches have noticeable friction when pressed, which some users prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out, requiring more pressure when pressing the keys.
On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switches are described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. These switches provide an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. They offer a fluid travel and a sleek typing experience due to their smooth and refined finish.
Based on the available information, both the Cherry MX Black and KTT Strawberry switches have different subjective qualities in terms of feel. The MX Black switches provide a textured and stiff typing experience, while the Strawberry switches offer a frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished feel. It ultimately depends on personal preference whether one prefers a more tactile and resistant typing experience or a smoother and effortless one.
While the sound quality is described as low-pitched for both switches, the actual sound produced can vary based on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Therefore, although the descriptions of sound and feel may have similarities, it's important to understand that each switch may have its own nuances and variations.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black and KTT Strawberry switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of feel, with the MX Black being textured and stiff, and the Strawberry being frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, but the actual sound produced can vary depending on other factors. It's recommended to try out different switches and consider personal preferences to determine the most suitable option for an individual's typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy switch with a deep sound profile and a textured, stiff feel, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a classic smoothness and are loved for their reliable performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless feel, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a silky, buttery typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which contributes to a mellow tone. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for weight, sound, and feel.
Mentioned in this article
